What should I do about the small black mole that has appeared on my breast recently? I am 36 years old and have a family history of breast cancer. I also have fibroids in my breast and it just seems to have appeared overnight. I first noticed it about a week ago. It is about the size of the head of a pin, it is raised and black.

FROM OUR EXPERTS

Hi - First of all, unless your family history includes a mother or sister with breast cancer, it doesn't increase your risk; so you may be able to put that worry aside. As for the mole - keep your eye on it. If it changes (gets larger); or if your breast seems to be getting infected (swollen, hot, red, itchy, painful); or if you notice any other skin issues on your breast, please see a doctor. Inflammatory breast cancer can masquerade as a dermatological issue, so you'd want to rule that out. Good luck - PJH

Since I'm married to a melanoma survivor, the first thing that popped into my mind when I read your question was skin cancer, not breast cancer. If your mole is asymmetrical (not perfectly round), has more than one color in it, or more than one texture, I'd suggest making an appointment with a dermatologist right away. If it looks like a perfectly ordinary mole and doesn't change size, then you can watch it and show it to the doctor at your next check-up. And as PJ says, if you start seeing more generalized breast issues, you'll want to get checked out right away.

You should knowAnswers to your question are meant to provide general health information but should not replace medical advice you receive from a doctor. No answers should be viewed as a diagnosis or recommended treatment for a condition. Content posted by community members does not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media, which also reserves the right to remove material deemed inappropriate.